Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that’s become a beloved staple in many homes, including ours here in the Midwest. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The slow cooker version is especially wonderful because it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully over time, and it’s a great way to have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm, inviting meal.
Spaghetti Bolognese pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. You can also serve it with some crusty garlic bread to soak up the rich sauce. For a touch of freshness, consider adding a side of steamed green beans or broccoli. And of course, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of your spaghetti is always a delightful finishing touch.

Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese
Servings: 6

Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 bay leaf
1 pound spaghetti
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Directions
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the slow cooker.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. About 20 minutes before serving, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
7. Discard the bay leaf from the sauce. Serve the Bolognese sauce over the cooked spaghetti and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Variations & Tips
For a healthier twist, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. If you have picky eaters, try finely grating some carrots or zucchini into the sauce for added nutrition without altering the flavor much. For a vegetarian version, use lentils instead of meat and vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add a splash of red wine to the sauce for a richer flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.